Bristol's cycle network is due to undergo a major review which could help spur improvement and maintenance of routes.

The UK's National Cycle Network (NCN) is a 16,000-mile long link of routes which snake across the country, including a number of areas in Bristol.

But many parts of the network have become out of date as their popularity has increased, sparking a major review.

The review will be conducted by transport charity Sustrans, which is the custodian of the NCN.

The popular Bristol and Bath Railway Path forms part of the National Cycle Network

CEO of the group, Xavier Brice, said: "Much of the existing National Cycle Network was designed to standards that have since been changed and improved.

"With this review, we want to further build on the success of the NCN and achieve a network of safe, fully accessible and high quality routes and paths that will make walking and cycling easier for everyone, regardless of their age and abilities, and inspire a new generation to get on their bikes."

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Mr Brice added: "Walking and cycling can hugely benefit public health and wellbeing, boost local economies and create greener local environments. The NCN plays a large role in achieving this, as it encourages active commuting and a healthy lifestyle, and contributes to economic growth.

"This is a reminder that governments at all levels need to prioritise dedicated and consistent investment for existing walking and cycling routes that will serve communities across the UK and generations for years to come."

The NCN was set up in 1995 after Sustrans won a £42.5million grant to build a UK-wide network. It is owned by local authorities, Network Rail, the Highways Agency, National Trust, Forestry Commission and the Canal and River Trust.

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A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said: "We want cycling to become a natural choice of transport for people of all ages and backgrounds.

"We are determined to make cycling and walking safer and easier across the country, and that's why we have provided £83,900 towards the cost of this important review of the National Cycle Network which should lead to future upgrades for the families, commuters and tourists who use it every year."

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Richard Rutter, Policy, Research and Impact Unit Manager for the Canal and River Trust

said: “The Canal and River Trust currently hosts 500 miles of the National Cycle Network on our towpaths.

“We are delighted to support the Review to understand how our 200 year old towpaths, which already attract over 400 million visits each year and which are on the doorstep of eight million people, can attract even more people and help to deliver even greater wellbeing benefits in our fast paced world.”